Please note this tour is operated by our partner Cheeky Kea Tours

Nestled at the heart of New Zealand’s Southern Alps (Kā Tiritiri o te Moana),
Arthur’s Pass is steeped in history. Connecting the east and west coasts of Kā
Tiritiri o te Moana, the route was originally established by iwi to trade
pounamu (greenstone) before it became known to surveyors such as Arthur Dudley
Dobson who would later colonise its status in 1864. Home of the world’s only
truly alpine parrot and our namesake, the Kea, the now National Park’s
dramatic terrain, powerful waterfalls, unique fauna, native Beech forest, and
engineering feats make it a popular destination for hikers and sightseers
alike.

So why not join us as we travel the Great Alpine Highway through the
Canterbury plains, across braided rivers, and past famous filming locations to
explore the jaw dropping geology and geography of Castle Hill and Arthur’s
Pass. You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes
Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier.
Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides and including return
to Christchurch aboard the world famous TranzAlpine, this journey is one you
will never forget!

As this tour operates in an alpine region, the weather can be unpredictable so
please prepare for all conditions. Please note that this tour is not suitable
as a shore excursion.

Highlights and inclusions:

• Small group size
• Carbon neutral tour of Arthur’s Pass from Christchurch
• Picture perfect scenery - including Lakes Pearson and Lydon, and Cave Stream
• Castle Hill
• Breath taking views - including of the Otira Viaduct
• Chance to spot Kea in the wild!
• Return to Christchurch on the world famous TranzAlpine
• Lunch, bottled water, and Kiwi snacks
• WiFi and USB charging
• Commentary
• 100% Kiwi as experience

Itinerary:

Christchurch – We start by leaving Ōtautahi Christchurch, also known as
New Zealand's Garden City. As we head inland, our knowledgeable guide will
point out some of the central city highlights.

Selwyn District - On our way, we will drive through the region’s Selwyn
District; an important home to some of New Zealand’s key agricultural and
horticultural industries.

Springfield/Alpine Jet Thrills (45 minutes) - Continuing further, you
will be greeted by Springfield, where we will then make our turn off towards
the team at Alpine Jet Thrills. Here there are walks, views of the Waimakariri
river, and sheep cuddles to enjoy. Looking for more adventure? Add on a 30
minute thrilling jet boat experience on one of the region’s most famous rivers
(extra booked and sold separately).

Lake Lyndon (5 minutes) - Next up we stop at Lake Lyndon. Nestled at
the base of Porters Pass, Lyndon, or Te Hāpua Waikawa, is popular amongst
jetboaters, bird watchers, and brave swimmers. It is known as one of this
area's colder lakes.

Castle Hill (1 hour) - Castle Hill, or Kura Tāwhiti, is perhaps one of
Canterbury’s most distinguishable settings. Famous for its scenery that would
later inspire Middle Earth™, nearby Flock Hill, who Castle Hill shares its
geology with, went on to become one of the filming locations used for The
Chronicles of Narnia - The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe. The weathered
limestone rocks sit proudly abreast the tussocky hills that were once in the
ocean. Over time they have eroded away, forming the amazing unique shapes you
see today. While you walk amongst the rocks, you might catch a glimpse of
climbers and boulderers who frequent the area. Please note that this is not a
guided walk, so you will be left to explore this piece of beauty on your own.

Lake Pearson (5 minutes) - Ōpōrea, or Lake Pearson, is the largest of
three mountain lakes on the pass. This picturesque glacial lake is surrounded
by the Southern Alps, and is a popular spot for swimmers, fishing and
visitors. Significantly, the lake was, and is still used as a site of mahinga
kai (food gathering) for local iwi.

Otira Gorge Lookout (15 minutes) - Also known as Death's Corner, the
Otira Viaduct Lookout is an amazing spot to see the National Park in all its
glory. This bridge is the only reason that driving through Arthur’s Pass is
possible today. At 440 metres long, it is a true feat of engineering. The
lookout is a great spot for a photo framing viaduct and the surrounding
landscape. Keep your eyes peeled at this stop! With a bit of luck, you might
even see a wee Cheeky Kea - New Zealand’s sneaky alpine parrot!

Arthur’s Pass Village (1 hour) - We depart the lookout and head towards
Arthur’s Pass Village. Located 740 metres above sea level, you will be able to
experience the majestic Southern Alps up close. Once we arrive, you can choose
to either walk to Devils Punch Bowl, or grab a coffee and spend some time
exploring the local shops.

_Devils Punch Bowl - This walking track is approximately 1 hour long, with a
gradual incline (including steps) towards a ferocious 131 metre tall
waterfall. Fitness is low to moderate as you walk through the bush and native
beech forest. _

Please note that depending on time, your guide will let you know how long
you have and will assist you on the day in regard to the best activity for the
weather and time allocated.

TranzAlpine (AHP-CHCH) - A popular highlight of this tour is the return
trip to Christchurch aboard the TranzAlpine. Departing Arthur’s Pass, enjoy
the views from the train’s open air carriage as you travel across braided
rivers, past high country stations, and around horseshoe bends. This ever-
changing landscape is beautiful all year round, allowing you to sit back and
relax and take it all in.

Christchurch - After arriving back in Christchurch, our guide will pick
you up from the train station before dropping you off at your pick up point.
With your camera roll full, this day will definitely be something to brag
about!

Please note additional stops are taken into consideration for toilet
breaks.

IMPORTANT: Please note that TranzAlpine bookings are managed by Great Journeys
New Zealand, who cannot be held responsible for any missed connections due to
delayed train arrivals. If you have onward travel plans (such as flights),
please be aware that the service may experience delays of 30 minutes or more
beyond the scheduled arrival into Christchurch at 7pm. As such, we recommend
allowing extra time to ensure you have ample time for any connections. Please
also note that due to changes to daylight saving, the length of daylight is
shortened meaning that some of the journey may take place in the dark due to
earlier sun setting. As Great Journeys is a third party supplier, we are not
responsible for any delays or issues that may occur while aboard the
TranzAlpine. For concerns or questions, please contact the operator directly.